TIMES COLUMNIST DISCUSSES NEW BOOK Dan Barry reads from his book, Pull Me Up, about growing up on Long Island and making his way from a small town reporter to a New York Times columnist. Mon., May 24 at 7. Half King, 505 W 23rd at 10th Ave. 212-462-4300.

HOUSING WORKS USED BOOK CAFE, 126 Crosby St., 334-3324: May 11-Dennis McFarland reads from his new novel Prince Edward, 7 p.m.; May 19-Poetry, various readers, 7 p.m., free; Call for information about free readings where donated books are encouraged as admission.